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The Word Chains In The Book 'Chains' By Laurie Halse Anderson

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Imagine living in a world where you are “chained between two nations” at the age of 13. You want your freedom, but on the other hand who are you loyal to? Your country or the rebels? It’s a hard choice for someone like Isabelle's character to face, but she stands strong and keeps her head held high. The word “chains” in the book Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson is used as a metaphor throughout the whole book. Specifically, to describe a limit being put on someone or something. When Isabelle was sold at the beginning of the story, she was hit with a harsh reality of how her people were treated at this day and age. Furthermore, as time went by she got chances to fight for both sides but in the end she would need to choose one. It was the Loyalists versus the Rebels in this case. By siding with the Rebels, Isabelle was promised freedom, something she has wanted since the day of birth. In addition, they offered to help in the search of Isabelle’s missing sister. “She cannot chain my soul. Yes, but she could hurt me. She’d …show more content…

Namely because the loyalists support slavery. However, both sides are using slaves no matter what. Isabelle may be passionate for her freedom in her words, but hasn’t proven it in her fight. “The beast has grown too large,” the mayor said.”If it breaks free of its chains, we are all in danger. We need to cut off it’s head ”(Mayor 47). In this quote it describes the Rebels plan of stopping the British of their invasion upon New York City. What he tries to illustrate, in the quote is that if they have any chance of winning the war, they have to take out the army’s leaders. In the end, Isabelle sides with the Rebels and takes off in a boat with Curzon to go find Ruth. I personally am happy with Isabelle’s decision in siding with the Rebels because she proves her fight in wanting freedom. I’m glad that she found people with the same struggles and dreams as

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